Your trusted source for local Olympia, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $600,000 Brownfield Grant to the City of Olympia for the cleanup of hazardous substances along the West Bay shoreline. Local leaders, including U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, highlighted the grant's importance for environmental health and economic development in the region, aiming to revitalize contaminated sites and enhance residents' quality of life.
Thurston County will conduct emergency preparedness 'lock down' drills at its courthouse from June 3 to June 7, resulting in brief facility closures. These drills aim to enhance safety protocols for county employees and visitors during emergencies. Commission Chair John Hutchings emphasized their importance for public and staff safety.
The City of Olympia is seeking citizens to join the Heritage Commission, which is vital for preserving the city's historic resources. The application period is open until May 16, 2019, for two positions, each with a three-year term. Interested individuals can find more information and apply on the City’s website.
Maps for the Spring Arts Walk in Olympia are now available at various downtown locations, including participating businesses and city facilities. An interactive web map provides details on artists, performances, and activities, enhancing community engagement with the arts. For downloads and event highlights, visit the City of Olympia's website.
Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation is hosting an open house on April 1, 2019, to gather public feedback on proposed off-leash dog areas at Evergreen Park, Ward Lake Park, and near McLane Elementary. Plans for dedicated mountain bike trails at Kaiser Woods Park are also in the works, with online surveys available for community input.
Commercial salal harvest permits for the Olympic National Forest will be available for purchase starting March 18 in Forks and March 19 in Quinault and Quilcene, Washington. Each permit costs $150 and is limited to one per person, with a lottery system in place if demand exceeds supply. Additionally, Mason Health is offering scholarships for local high school students and healthcare workers, emphasizing community investment in health education.
A new pump track has opened at Isthmus Park in Olympia, providing a recreational space for biking, scootering, and skateboarding. The Grand Opening is on March 21, featuring live entertainment, food, and a poetry reading by Poet Laureate Sady Sparks.
The City of Olympia's Saturday Drop-Off Site for waste and recycling opens for the 2019 season on March 9 and will operate every Saturday until November 23. Residents can dispose of scrap metal, yard debris, and other recyclables for free or at a nominal cost, depending on the material type. This initiative promotes environmental sustainability and supports the community by providing a local resource for waste management.
The City of Olympia is offering free drop-off sites for residents to dispose of vegetation debris from the recent snowstorm on February 23 and 24. City Manager Steve Hall stated that this initiative supports residents and aids in recovery efforts. Proof of residency is required.
The City of Olympia is offering free, time-limited parking from February 20 to 28 at designated meters to encourage downtown visits following recent snowfall. This initiative aims to promote local shopping and dining while ensuring fair parking access for all. Parking Services will enforce posted time limits.